Benefits of Athletics for Military School Students: The Perceived Benefits of Interscholastic and Intramural Athletics for Students of Military Schools

Abstract

This chapter studies the perception of cadets, alumni, and staff of military schools and colleges (N=220) who responded to a survey about the benefits of interscholastic and intramural athletics for students in military schools and colleges. Overwhelmingly, respondents agreed that both athletics build citizens with good character, foster leadership development, improve academic success metrics and overall personal wellness. Respondents surprisingly perceived athletics as slightly less impactful on fostering integrity and respect as well as on dropout prevention and furthering writing skills. Respondents perceive that interscholastic athletics were more likely to deliver positive returns than intramural athletics, even though most military schools and colleges require participation in intramural athletics, and participation in interscholastic athletics is often optional and based on ability level. Overall, there is a strong perception that participation in athletic activities of any kind offer positive returns for cadets attending military schools and colleges.